2012 Conference

Ellie Lofaro

Ellie has touched the hearts and funny-bones of women since 1984 with her engaging warmth. Her ability to discover humour in everyday situations and her deep understanding of God’s grace have brought laughter, hope and encouragement to many. She touches the heart, stimulates the mind, and nourishes the soul.

Ellie grew up in New York as a first generation American from a “very Italian” family. In 2008, she teamed up with fellow Italian New Yorker Kathy Troccoli to present the women’s conference Spaghetti for the Soul: A Feast of Faith, Hope, and Love. Spaghetti for the Soul is being joyfully “served” to women in 50 cities across America. In 2010, they launched an all new conference titled LOOK UP! Timeless Truths for Trying Times. She and Kathy Troccoli also co-authored the book Spaghetti for the Soul.

Ellie’s other books are: From Battle Scars to Beauty Marks, Portraits of Women Who Turned Trials to Triumphs; Leap of Faith; Bonding with the Blonde Women and Slices of Life. She has also written for many magazines.

Ellie has been a featured guest on programmes such as James Dobson’s Focus on the Family, James Robison’s Life Today, 100 Huntley Street, The Harvest Show, and CBN’s Living the Life, among others.

Ellie is married to Frank, and they live near Washington DC. They have three children: Paris (named for the City of Light), Jordan (named for the River of Life), and Capri (named for the Isle of Love).

What others say:

Ellie Lofaro is flat out funny! She is a wonderful author and speaker with a dry wit and a winsome style that draws you in and lands a powerful punch. More importantly, Ellie has a vibrant relationship with the Lord and has dedicated her life to making His truths known. She cares deeply and speaks those truths in love. – Dr. James Dobson, Founder and Chairman of Focus on the Family

Listening to Ellie teach God’s Word is an experience that one never forgets. She weaves the truths of Scripture with practical application and humour in a way that mesmerises the mind and stirs the soul. Ellie is a gift to the body of Christ…prepare to be blessed. – Priscilla Shirer, Author and 2007 BFA Speaker

When Ellie Lofaro speaks, people listen. Her high energy, biblical depth, authentic life, profound illustrations, and genuine heart for the needs of people make her one of today’s top speakers. She combines excellent content with personal warmth on and off the platform. I highly recommend her ministry! – Carol Kent, 2008 BFA Speaker, Author, President of Speak Up Speaker Services

Ellie Lofaro is a vivacious and gifted Christian communicator. Patty and I consider her a friend. – Charles Colson, Author, Founder and Chairman of Prison Fellowship

Ellie will feed your passion for living more like Christ. – Josh McDowell, Author, Founder and President of Josh McDowell Ministries

Barbie Erasmus

Speaker, mentor & pastor

Barbie Erasmus and her husband, Pedro, were missionaries on the Angolan/Namibian border for 9 years before returning to Cape Town permanently. Since then, they have been the senior pastors at the Edge Church for the past 20 years.

Barbie is passionate about training people in the area of leadership and discipleship. She has a young adults mentoring group that she meets with weekly, and is also a sought-after speaker. She currently serves as the congregational pastor of the Edgemead congregation which is part of a multi-campus church.

Barbie and Pedro have three grown sons—Luke, Joel and Daniel—and a daughter-in-law, Joel’s wife, Candice. She is an avid reader and keen runner, and enjoys shopping and watching TV series like Criminal Minds.